The University of Alabama has appointed Fernanda Foertter as the executive director of its High Performance Computing and Data Center.

Foertter joins UA after working at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and in industry roles focused on high-performance computing and data science. She brings over a decade of experience in computing, artificial intelligence, and research support.

At UA, Foertter will help develop the new HPC center, set to open in 2026, which will serve as a resource for faculty, students, and industry collaborators.

The 40,000-square-foot center will substantially expand UA’s capacity for advanced computing, data science, and AI, supporting research across domains.

“Bringing Fernanda to The University of Alabama marks a tremendous step forward in our research enterprise,” said Dr. Bryan Boudouris, Vice President for Research and Economic Development at the University of Alabama said.

“With her expertise and vision, the High Performance Computing and Data Center will empower our faculty, staff, students, and academic and governmental collaborators to push the boundaries of discovery and innovation, creating exciting discovery, workforce training, and economic development opportunities that will benefit the entire UA System and the state of Alabama.”

The project is funded by the United States Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology and Alabama’s Education Trust Fund.

Together, these investments reflect state and federal priorities to strengthen research competitiveness, accelerate workforce development, and foster economic development.

Building on this foundation, the center will position UA to compete for federal research awards and private industry contracts, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability. The facility will support research in key areas like water, materials, health, transportation, and national security and amplify UA’s ability to recruit top faculty and student talent.

“The combination of government, industry and startup experience has shaped my perspective on how high-performance computing can serve as a catalyst for innovation,” said Foertter.

“I’m excited to bring together my experience to help establish this center as a hub for research and workforce development. By connecting advanced computing with real world applications, we can prepare students for future careers, support industry needs create opportunities that strengthen research, education and economic growth across Alabama and nationally.”

Foertter earned a master’s degree in materials science engineering from the University of Florida and a bachelor’s degree in physics from Florida International University. She is a veteran of the Florida Army National Guard.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.